Independence Day During a Pandemic

Independence Day is upon us once again. However, the world is a far different place than it was when last we celebrated our most popular summer holiday. Americans have not celebrated the Fourth of July during a pandemic since way back in 1918. Seeing as how it’s been over a century since we have needed to do this, and that none of us were even alive the last time it happened, it’s hard to know what we should (and should not) be doing. That’s why we figured it might be a good idea to offer our readers this blog with tips on how to (safely) celebrate Independence Day during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic.

Mask Up If You Go Out

It seems a bit silly to be telling our readers that they should wear a mask, since most of you likely work in healthcare and are already well aware of the need to wear a facemask if you are going anywhere with people around.

You know what to do, so just keep on doing it. Be ready to mask up if you plan to be out in public.

Cancel the Big Barbecue (Sorry)

Fourth of July is usually that time of year when we all get together with friends and family for a big barbecue. Chow down on some burgers and hot dogs. Toss the Frisbee around. Shoot off some fireworks. Let the kids run around the yard with sparklers. The usual stuff.

Well… not this year. Sorry, folks! But this Fourth of July everyone needs to keep practicing social distancing. That means we will have to forgo the usual big get togethers this year. You can still do all the fun stuff, of course. You just need to do so either alone or within your own personal “COVID Bubble.”

Stay Inside Your “COVID Bubble”

To avoid having to be completely isolated during the pandemic, some people have taken to creating “COVID Bubbles” or “Quarantine Bubbles.” Whatever you call it, this “bubble“ is a select grouping of close friends or immediate family members (who are, of course, not infected with COVID-19). Everyone within the bubble agrees not to socially interact with anyone outside of said bubble. This makes it possible for those inside the bubble to more safely interact with one another while reducing the risk of coming into contact with anyone who is infected.

Therefore, if you are planning to host or attend any sort of social event over the holiday, it will need to be within the confines of your own personal “COVID Bubble.”

And (of course) Be Safe with Those Fireworks!

Every single Fourth of July, there are casualties to fireworks. It’s all fun and games until someone loses an eye (or their eyebrows) because somebody got a little too “loosey goosy” with a roman candle or forgot to grab the safe end of a sparkler. So, remember to be safe. Light the fuse and get to a safe distance. Set off your fireworks away from homes, dry grass and other flammable materials. And always be aware of the “business end” and keep that pointed away from yourself and others.

Happy Fourth of July, everyone! We hope this article helps you and yours have a safe, fun and (most importantly) COVID-19-free holiday!